When it comes to any operating system, the kernel plays the most crucial role as it ensures smooth operations and acts as the intermediary channel between the software and the hardware. Google recently rolled out Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 for the Pixel devices, which brings some noteworthy features and updates. However, the upgrade to Linux kernel 6.1 for all Tensor-powered Pixel devices is of great significance due to the massive performance improvements it will bring. It also reflects the company’s commitment to enhance user experience.
Google with the Android 15 QPR2 beta 1 roll-out has brought forth a major update for Tensor-powered Pixel devices
Google seems to be hard at work towards a more aligned user experience across its ecosystem. It is bringing forward features and updates that are meant to offer some major advancements. This is especially evident with the company recently releasing the Android 15 QPR2 Beta 1 for Pixel devices via Android Authority.
One of the company’s major updates is upgrading the kernel for all Pixel devices powered by Tensor to be now running Linux 6.1. This includes the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel Fold, and the Pixel Fold Tablet.
Google has recently committed to its users about bringing seven years of Android upgrades for the new Pixel phones. The company now moving the kernel version to Linux 6.1 reflects its plans to enable better performance, feature compatibility, and improved security across its devices by regularly bringing updates to its kernels and Android version updates.
The upgrade to Linux 6.1 is meant to offer some significant advancements over the previous devices powered by Tensor G1 and G2 chips based on Linux 5.10. These advancements primarily revolve around improved memory management, better performance, and enhanced security that extend to the overall Pixel experience.
Pixel users who want to check the latest update to Linux 6.1 and experience the enhancements could be part of the Android 15 beta program for now. If they can wait for a while, the stable release is expected to come out in March 2025. It is vital to back up data before joining the latest beta software to avoid bugs or instability. If you want to register for the beta, simply go to Android Beta for Pixel Devices. It is also important to remember that some of the features might not work fully but will be available later in the full release.
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